The Gretsch Duo Jet: A Short History

[@SombraPiloto]

This doesn’t help me want the least gear. Not at all.

[@fivewattworld]

I hear you. MAKING these videos doesn’t make it easier for me either.

[@timothycormier3494]

Frank Bama hahahahaha right! It makes me think. Yup!! I want one of those aswell. Keith explains in one video. The difference between want and need. Do I need a duo jet? No, I have plenty of guitars. Do I want a duo jet? Yes, yes I do!😁

[@jtoddclarke8254]

@@timothycormier3494 I think Jeff Beck would argue with you...if you want Duo Jet tone...then you NEED a Duo Jet. Lol...just go buy one.

[@ThunderExpress]

Totally

[@rodfinlay333]

Lol I hear you. I already have a 59 and a hollowbody . I am now wanting a 62 firebird

[@RickBeato]

Once again I learned so much Hypes! I love that 50s Duo Jet!

[@davidthompson4649]

I was watching several videos of yours last night..loved the new one..1st song your produced..the sounds you got were all awesome..the drums and bass were great...thanks for your videos

[@WTT1978]

G'day Rick! Love your channel! Learning so much, more then I ever did completing my music dipolma! 🤙🏻

[@mcspankies1799]

You need to get a bo diddley in the studio id like to see you monkey around with one

[@dougrobinson8602]

I think that Sparkle Jet looks like sex with strings. Sooo classic.

[@jltrem]

Rick, why is Keith Hypes?

[@StarQueenEstrella]

During his solo career, George Harrison brought out his old Duo Jet to record his 1987 album Cloud Nine. He’s even pictured playing the guitar on the album’s cover art. That was his first new album after a five-year hiatus from music-making - it would ultimately be the last album released in his lifetime.

[@twantheunisz9281]

I swear every time one of these is posted it makes my day

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Twan!

[@raccoonbilly7569]

We have got to get a short history of the fender mustang

[@monovision566]

Chris Cornell needs to be remembered for keeping Gretsch cool in the 90’s and 00’s.

[@jubei7259]

@Van peter His signature model is a 335

[@skylermeredith2522]

@Van peter refer to the black hole sun video as well as the Guitar world Run down of gear used

[@joseislanio8910]

Van peter watch out black hole sun video. It was a very popular music video back then on MTV, and showed him using a gold finish Gretsch

[@monovision566]

@Van peter Gretsch was always part of his rig. He used a ton of alt tunings and relied on a silverjet for a lot of his sounds. Kim Thayil (lead) played Guild S100s, which were basically SGs. That's probably the tone you're thinking of. But the last two Soundgarden albums as well as Cornell's first solo project have tons of Gretsch on them.

[@fivewattworld]

I know his signature 335 had Lollar Filtertron pickups. So there must have been Gretsch love back there sometime.

[@greglivo]

The Country Gentleman has got to be the grandaddy of all signature model guitars. It was also interesting to learn about Gretsch applying their drum plastic laminating technology to guitars. I've seen those sparkle finishes for decades and never made the connection. Once again, one of your "trying to get the most out of minimal amount of gear" videos has made me want to add to my collection.

[@barbmelle3136]

From Leo: Gretsch is always a fun topic, I am glad you chose the often overlooked brand. . I certainly enjoy them, and have an affection for the crisp, open sound from Filtertron pickups. I don't have any of the original Duo Jets but have a Jet Club and a Jet 5220. They are really well made guitars, and the low price is a real value. The body shape and weight is more comfortable than any Les Paul. Chet was an amazing musician and innovated sounds all of his life, truly a top tier player. PS: a Radio engineer in Southbend Indiana patented "Hum bucking technology for steel stringed Instruments" in 1936. Everyone after that developed reshaped hardware design that used the technology. Seth Lover and Betz designs proved to be the simplest design of the technology. Glad they did.

[@Spartanm333]

I agree - for anyone wanting to step up from their first budget guitar to a stage capable budget to mid ($400), the Asian made Gretsch Electromatics are a serious contender against brands such as Epiphone. These guitars borrow heavily from the parent models (a great start), are very well made and finished, historic features such as the gnarled G pot nobs, strap locks, binding - really for the money they are sensational and since they tend to be written off as country or rockabilly guitars they can be very cheap used. My son's first solid body electric was a Gretsch ProJet Electromatic (similar to a duo jet in shape and approach) with T.V.Jones designed Blacktop Filtertrons - had a well finished fret board, solid tuners and a synthetic bone nut well cut - no issues with tuning. In person it was a thing of beauty with the walnut stained back. I'm not sure how much the vaulting affects tone, but for a teenager, it also made the guitar easier to carry for an hour or two. We've since sold it on... to buy a Gibson Les Paul. To be very honest we wish we could have kept the Gretsch but you can only have so many guitars and the LP is a beast with a Marshal valve amp and where my son is right now (British 60's inspired blues / rock). This video kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIXZlIN3nrx1ntE we created to help promote the sale indicates the clarity of the Filtertons which can be quite single coil like although they have their own 'ring'. From 2.0 mins he kicks some overdrive in on a the valve Marshall and right at the end he rolls the tone pot off (neck pickup only) and remarkably gets Clapton's woman tone - no TS8 or other pedals - just the ProJet and a Marshall. The Pro-jet sustains easily and this can be brought out by a decent amp. I'm told that there isn't much difference in tone between these guitars and the (much) more expensive U.S. made Gretsch models like the Duojet so really, like I said, a whole lot of guitar and history for not a lot of bucks. I'm sure the quality and finish of the U.S. guitars warrants the extra cost, not knocking them at all, rather focussing on the gift of the Gretsch budget lines.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Leo and Barb. I always enjoy your additions.

[@B3ASTBANDIT]

I don’t usually comment but thank you so much for the increase in uploads. There are some of the best videos on KZbin, bless up.

[@sonsauvage]

To the most high! Lol

[@bigsnacks913]

Seriously I've decided to cut back on youtube and when I think about the few channels I would watch Dave's was the first I thought of. It's our PBS equivalent in the gear world.

[@fivewattworld]

Dave?

[@bigsnacks913]

@@fivewattworld Keith my bad dude! Don't know where Dave came from lmao

[@videovuer]

Dave's not here!

[@johngallagher7062]

I’ve had a sparkle jet, George Harrison signature (57’ duo jet) and the reissue 53’ Duo Jet with white plain pick guard, and all were just amazing. The Japanese Terada plant makes some fantastic guitars, my favourite guitars ever. Miss mine and wish I had them still.

[@progpogs]

I've never cared about Gretsch but I'll watch anything you put out.

[@donkimble]

Right? No constant jump cuts, no goofy animations, no gimmicks period. Just the story of the guitar. It’s so refreshing to see KZbin videos without the KZbin “style” that plagues so much “content”. I couldn’t agree more.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Prog!

[@fivewattworld]

And the cuts are there, I just bury them in images/story (or such is the hope).

[@NeoRichardBlake]

@@fivewattworld Cuts are just fine, Keith. Jump cuts are jarring and almost painful to watch. They break the flow of the imagery, and really bring the viewer out of the experience. You don't do that. You know what you're doing. Keep it up, and thanks for the awesome videos!

[@MattBargain]

I’m starting to fall in love with them. Must be the age. Once you get close to 40... Starting with a cheap Jim Dandy though.

[@tntstorms7969]

I just got my 1957 Japanese reissue 6128T Duo Jet yesterday and I am very happy! I love the way it plays, the tones, and how light it is.

[@jts3339]

Keith, I own a black 2012 G6128, and one of the most beautiful features about it is the gorgeous stained mahogany back. Unlike the Gibson LP Custom Black Beauty which has ebony lacquer on the sides and back, many of the Duo Jets have stained and clear lacquered backs that give each one of them unique character and elegance. The first time I played my Gretsch I got the same feeling that I got when I saw my wife for the first time. I knew this one was a keeper.

[@fivewattworld]

I agree. I've never been able to get attached to a LP but would try one of these if I found one at the right weight, or maybe add filtertrons to an ES-390, hmmmm.....

[@guitarrachannel7315]

Wow, this video was so well produced with detailed pictures of Gretsch history. The Duo-Jet title is misleading, this is the full history.

[@fivewattworld]

I tried to make it the "solid body" history and will do the "hollow body" history another time.

[@PNNYRFACE]

Great video. My grandad had the 55 red oriental jet firebird w the original case and leather strap. He played it so much it hs fingernail indents in the frets

[@johnsalamone6852]

For kids who grew up and became guitar players in the 90's, Chris Cornell of Soundgarden was the reason that a lot of us wanted a Gretsch, or even knew what one was. The fact that they are not typically associated with harder edged music, but he played one often during that time period, is a real testament to the guitars dynamic range. Great lookers and great tones! An obvious influence on Chris's signature Gibson that would come years later and that guitars choice of pickups and bridge. So many great and diverse artists, with many different playing styles and genres, all put time in on one of these iconic guitars.

[@davidpggarrett]

I've read that Chris used a double cutaway Gretsch Silver Jet, a single cutaway Gretsch Duo Jet and a Fender Jazzmaster on Superunknown.

[@ericwarrington6650]

RIP MALCOLM YOUNG..🤘♥️🎸🎶🙏🌻

[@nicolas.grisanti]

Yeah! You can watch videos of Chris in the Superunknown tour playing Gretsch, the Black Hole Sun video, and all that era, Duo Jets and Jazzmasters he use on the record too.

[@tribulationcoming]

This is incredibly good to those who care. I like making what I call "racket" with six strings and an amp. Went out about 150 feet, the length of the extension cords into the middle of some pine trees and played with a backing track [Best of Beck] for 43 minutes, don't know what the neighbors thinking, no noise ordinances out here. Thanks again Keith, almost ready for a Tee.

[@DrRussPhd]

Never played a Gretsch, either drum or guitar. But loved the video. One of my favorite guitarists plays a Duo Jet: Billy Zoom from the LA punk band X plays a silver sparkle Duo Jet and he cooks on it.

[@astrorad2000]

Excellent video and history. About 25 or 30 years ago, I bought a 1957 DuoJet at a garage/barn sale. It had no pickups, no electronics, no tailpiece nor bridge, the humpback inlays were loose and falling out and someone had routed out a spot for a middle pickup. The original Gretsch model and serial number sticker was still attached on the inside of the guitar.There was a mud dauber wasp nest in the backside cavity. I paid $2 for it. I bought an original vintage Gretsch G tailpiece and Bigsby bridge on Ebay for $72. I had intended to restore the guitar and fill the center route with an inlay of clear casting plastic with an actual mud dauber wasp in it. Well time passed and I decide that I would never finish this project, so I listed the guitar on Ebay including the bridge and tailpiece. A collector in California bought it for $1750 . Not a bad return for a $74 investment. He sent me a message when he received it and stated how happy he was that he bought it. I wish I could see the end result of his restoration.

[@fivewattworld]

Great story. Love the mud wasp detail!

[@hussledupgamejam]

Possible history episodes to consider: - Martin D-28 - Rickenbacker 360 (or any Rick guitar) - Music Man Stingray Bass - Hofner Violin Bass - Warwick Thumb Bass - Ibanez Jem (or Joe Satriani Model) - Danelectro '59 - D'Angelico New Yorker - Rickenbacker 4001 Bass

[@fivewattworld]

Great list. We think alike...

[@janymikeptz1156]

@@fivewattworld Would love to see one on D'Angelico's history. Great videos, really enjoy your content. Please keep making such interesting and educational videos. Thanks!

[@jamesparker8529]

yeah, would love the hofner bass, and definitely the fender jaguar or mustang

[@deepspacedruid7673]

Hell yeah, danelectrp

[@paulunnasch810]

One of my very favorite books when I was a teenager was Million Dollar Les Paul. I was entranced by the technical language and the painstaking detail the author bothered to make mention of. This channel is quickly becoming an extension of that. I love learning history in reference to specific items (i.e. instruments).

[@rebootver]

This channel is pure gold.

[@colenoblit6129]

You’ve got to do a history of the Martin Dreadnaught, but that might be the longest one.

[@quintas66]

That would probably need to be a multi-part Ken Burns production.

[@johnsee7269]

Iconic X 2! The most aesthetically pleasing guitar shape ever invented/made.

[@fivewattworld]

"This week on five watt world..." But I am curious about the history.

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

@@fivewattworld when virus is done, call your pa friend 🤘🏻 head to Nazareth and go check the factory out.

[@fivewattworld]

That’s idea!

[@bobilly]

I got a Stephen Stern Sparkle Jet recently and it is a joy, like a big fat Tele with a bigsby.

[@unclestubs8377]

PLEASE keep these mini documentaries coming. I love the history and enlightening info they provide! Thank you.

[@WTT1978]

It took a while... but I now love Gretsch guitars! I had a friend who had one and oh my gosh did it sound sweet and look good!

[@sansocie]

I just worship Chet..loved seeing him live in a one person show back in the 80's I really love what you are doing with your channel. Thank you!

[@lukebrinkley9279]

Mid '60s Corvette owner, here. I think of it like Gretsch's answer to the SG Jnr.

[@shaunw9270]

No Luke , that was the Astro Jet , check it out , they're freaky but a very cool guitar ! Nice you have a 60's Corvette 👌

[@edvaca8419]

Got so excited when this popped up in my notifications. Self isolate and watch five watt world.

[@petewitt2867]

I really love your "__________: A Short History" films! Can't wait for the next one! Maybe a sneaky Chris Cheney reference please - for all us aussies watching.... (Gretsch G6126TCC Chris Cheney Signature Model)

[@chrisdrake447]

Chris Cheney ain’t just for Aussies, mind! I’ll happily stir up a hornets’ nest and say that Chris’ diversity and technical ability as a player, not to mention his skills as songwriter and singer, tops him out even over Setzer. Bang, I said it...

[@bleikrsound6127]

Yet another informative production KW, thanx! Around 1978 I purchased a used set of Gretsch drums, they must have been ten years old at that time. Shells and hardware built like a tank. Though I eventually sold or traded them, I wouldn't be surprised if they are still being played somewhere. Few years ago purchased a Gretsch G9120 Ukulele . . . the quality of their stuff is as solid as ever.

[@damien6685]

"Hmmmmm" [the noobie thinks] "So that's where Filtertrons came from" Thanks, learned something there, also put the whole Gretsch story into perspective

[@BushidoPhoto]

I bought a Stephen Stern built Duo Jet last week and love it. This was a fun video to learn more about the history that I didn't already know.

[@lionsdenblog]

My oldest sister’s first husband had a silver sparkle Duo Jet. I got to play it for about 6 months, but never had a guitar amp to put it through (I was playing bass in my high school rock band). Asked him about it when I saw him 18 months ago after my sister died of pulmonary fibrosis. Said he sold it for about $2000. Ugh. Bigsby and the whole nine yards.

[@notbraindead7298]

Sorry to hear about your sister.

[@EdwardPBone]

The first guitar I ever bought, only a couple of years ago, was an Electromatic Jet with a Bigsby. I'd gone into the guitar shop with a friend, planning on just trying out some instruments, and really having my eye on a Telecaster. He spotted the Jet and handed it to me, saying it looked like my kind of guitar. There was just something about the tone and overall playability, as well as the beautiful design, that made me fall in love instantly. I ended up buying it that very day, feeling slightly guilty because I usually don't buy anything on impulse. However, I still love her to death, and she inspires me to keep practicing and improving! Thanks for making these well-researched and enjoyable videos -- I always look forward to the next upload. :)

[@jesusleon8060]

Great job!!! You missed Billy Zoom of X. Love his playing and he’s all that is cool strumming that silver jet.

[@Rico_G]

Zoom is a painfully overlooked Gretsch icon.

[@knifeswitch5973]

A+ for bringing up Billy

[@fivewattworld]

I had him in the first edit but I had to do some serious cutting.

[@jesusleon8060]

five watt world I love your histories and what’s an added five minutes in a five watt world? Keep up the great work. Like Cankersaurus states, he’s just painfully overlooked.

[@glennpace9783]

Amen! Saw him (X) play back in '83 (?)....as a fan and player of the original alternative/punk Billy was a big influence.

[@redduketeleman]

Thanks 5. It's made me get out my Gretsch Reverend Horton Heath as it's taken a back seat as I've been watching the incredible Dickey Betts on utube with the ABB for the last few days whilst being at home. I must say that the Gretsch RHH is a beautifully made instrument. I'd say Japan is easily up there with the US in terms of build quality.

[@verticaldude]

Keith, please run for President. “I Promise Americans they’ll get the Most out of Their Lives, with the Least B.S.”

[@captainalex8003]

He probably won't.

[@bassplayer8815]

"One Gibson Amplifier for each family and will receive an extra for every amp under 5 watts they have"

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

A prs in every office with a tweed fyd amp for reinforcement 🤘🏻😆🤘🏻

[@bassplayer8815]

@@Knightmare-gz9ls "And the previous owners of Gibson and their CEOs will be the ones to pay for it not the employees, and adding that a Fender Stratocaster for those who create the greatest KZbin videos"

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

@@bassplayer8815 as a owner of a mint 04 strat I donate mine to local school to keep music alive 🤘🏻

[@rockyrovere2526]

Keith, another boomer of an edition. To my amazement, after all the crazy requests down the Fender line, you follow the beat of a different drummer. It’s almost scary, but despite our slight difference in years are very close.I wasn’t introduced in college, but sent away for ( my 1st) catalogue when I was 14 . I had an L.P. called Chet Atkins Workshop, and Harrison mania was surging in my blood.Never heard anything so clean and magical.I’ve never owned one, but have had trouble cradling a few. I’m getting long winded and only theory I’ve come to is that I’m not as lightly nimble as Brian Setzer, a contemporary who has also kept Gretsch on the world map. Peace, Rocky

[@donnyhall2535]

Hi Keith, there wasn't any mention of the " Billy- Bo" Gretsch Jupiter. It's wild looking but has a cool factor that other Gretsch guitars don't have. I want one so bad.

[@christopherbarney8424]

I finally decided to learn how to play guitar last year, at 45 yrs old. My first guitar was a Gretsch Streamliner semi-hollow. Ive since added the G5230 Electromatic jet, and I love them both! Ive also become fascinated with the history of the company and of guitars in general, and this channel has become a Godsend in this Lockdown period! Thank you Keith and keep up the great work!

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks for watching Christopher.

[@mattgilbert7347]

I love my Gretsch. It's nothing fancy, just an "entry-level" Streamliner 2622T but man, it plays and sounds like a guitar three times its price. The Centerblock and Broadtron pickups give it a versatile tone. Anything from hotter single-coil, Fender-like tones through to LP, humbucker sounds - and it definitely has that Gretsch "bark", even without the de rigueur Filertrons.

[@shunocarrda]

No one that I know of, describes technical aspects of a thing in such minimal and accurate manner, yet easy to understand words. And the introduction part is always excellent.

[@Mr3DBob]

Most of my guitar education was via a Chet Atkins book, and fingerpicking is still my style. But I didn't know about any brands except Fender and Gibson. The first Gretsch I saw in person was at a last-minute recording session, and we hadn't brought a bass. There was a Gretsch hollow body there, an awe used it to play the bass part. I wasn't impressed, but it was probably because the guitar was just sitting around, in need of new strings and setup. Decades later, I managed to obtain a Junior Jet, and its matching bass. They're both pretty good guitars, with good feel and jangly sound on the guitar. The bass is too heavy to play standing up.

[@stevejohnson2284]

This was best 23 min of my morning, Thanks! Keep the content coming. Stay safe and healthy to all those in the "5 Watt world"

[@Henjo29]

I like how George Harrison's story of how he got his Duo back from a friend and used it on the Cloud Nine album.

[@lueysixty-six7300]

In 10, 20, 40 years and more, Keith's collection of guitar history videos will be the benchmark, and go-to place for vintage guitar info. Look around. There's nothing even close to it on the net - certainly not Utube. While other Utubers are making videos that are dated within 24 hours, 5 Watt World's contribution will only gain strength and significance the more time passes. Great job, Keith 👍

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Luey

[@AskZac]

Best one yet. Loved the dialog between McCarty and Gretsch. Great work, Keith.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Zac. Coming from you that is meaningful.

[@makisupadude1241]

Great as always

[@NOLNV1]

Always wondered if the western Gretsches influenced Bo Diddley's later cowboy looks. Bo's the main player I think about when I think about Gretsches, though to be honest I guess I just think of Bo Diddley very often.

[@thomasfields2082]

Gretsch is probably the most underrated guitar in the world. I have owned several and each one has its own awesome sound.

[@davidthompson4649]

yeah!, another video....stay safe everyone

[@donkimble]

This channel is refreshingly straightforward. I really like the journalistic approach, and I learn things even about guitars I felt I knew well. Thanks!

[@santiagocolina]

Once again: RICKENBACKER!! when js it gonna be featured? Im so loving this vids. All my friends are watching

[@fivewattworld]

Patience my friend. It's coming...

[@toneyisaiah408]

I'd like to see a Rickanbacker bass guitar in your segments, Sir.

[@toneyisaiah408]

A young Roger Waters played a Rickanbacker bass guitar.

[@toneyisaiah408]

Chris Squire from the group Yes.

[@carlannala1595]

Last year I traded two guitars of harsh geometry for a used black double jet, an inexpensive Chinese model I believe. I did a lot of work on it and now I love it. It’s the perfect companion to my Princeton Tweed! So many sounds!

[@THEQueeferSutherland]

I see five watt world, and I click, god dammit! Can we do Rickenbackers now?

[@Terribleguitarist89]

I had a similar experience living in the barracks. Walking down the hall I heard "drifting" by Andy Mckee coming from the new dude's room. Knocked on the door to introduce myself, music stopped and a drunk country boy with an acoustic answered the door lol

[@stevegray2091]

It would have been nice to actually feature the sound of the instruments. I've played 1950s models and have owned a 1990s Round Up and a New Jet. Due to Brian Setzer's influence, T.V. Jones filtertron pickups have led to a more consistent clear and punchy sound for the newer guitars. I believe that the Japanese-made Gretsch guitars are some of the finest ever made. They are generally more playable and have more accessible necks and fingerboards than earlier American models. Another influence for the popularity of Gretsch guitars was the Monkees television show. However, none of the thin line models were featured on the program. A 6120 twelve string guitar with a natural finish was custom made for Michael Nesmith, and he still plays this guitar in concert appearances. Also, Neil Young and Stephen Stills of the Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young favor the instruments, including endorsed models of the White Falcon. The newer line of Electromatic Gretsch guitars has also been getting fine reviews, by significant players surprised at the quality and sound for their relatively low price.

[@fivewattworld]

It would...if I owned any of them. :)

[@kevinthomas3341]

I have to say that Keith’s “short history” vids are the most informative available anywhere. I subscribe to dozens of (mostly UK based) guitar, amp and pedal chanels, but Keith’s videos are the ones I look forward to the most, and are always the most rewarding.

[@fivewattworld]

Thanks Kevin

[@kevinmcgovern5110]

Only a minor Duo Jet Story: Chicago, 2006: My wife and I got into the habit of going to a Beatles Brunch every Sunday to see The Cavern Beat perform. They were spot-on, with vocals, music, and even on-stage banter. As near the real group in, say, 1962, as you could imagine. “George” played a Duo Jet through his Vox AC 30, a fine Beatle sound. After some time, he acquired a double-cut Country Gent that was awesome-an amazing improvement in tone! Taught me a great deal about electric guitar bodies, since I’m a drummer who loves the things. Harrison himself graduated toward Gibsons and Fender amps later in his Beatles tenure having become dissatisfied with his Gretsch/Vox sound. Yet he always treasured his Duo Jet, just the same.

[@seth1184]

I love guitars and I can't play. So I'm living vicariously through these videos.

[@TheDprime]

excellent as always - I'd love to see one on the Gibson Flying V - I don't particularly love the guitar but I know collectors go crazy over them and I'd love to understand why

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

V and explorer package as they are sisters pretty much.

[@ballamiguel]

Joe Bonamassa's fault lol

[@fivewattworld]

Ted McCartys fault, :)

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

@@fivewattworld not like it was a bad thing lol. Then we also got the prs McCarty pieces too. This McCarty guy has some amazing mess ups 🤘🏻

[@billdornbush5643]

I have a 2004 6128T Duo Jet guitar. I bought 'brand new' in 2019. I love it, how it plays, the feel and the unique sound. Thanks for the history lesson.

[@oldgeezergaming5602]

The story goes that George heard there was a strat for sale privately in Liverpool when he went to get it another guitar player in another Liverpool band had got there first so he was disappointed but got wind of the duo jet n bought it from a sailor in Liverpool payed £70 and an iou paraphrased quote from George himself

[@shaunw9270]

I remember seeing a TV interview with him recounting the story. Made me chuckle because when he was talking about getting beaten to the Strat , he simply said " The other guy got up early " 😁

[@robertlyon1360]

Haa Amazing to think how much that 20 pound IOU signed by George would be worth today! I bet the guy eventually threw it away not realising it could have been his retirement nest egg on that scrap of 'worthless' paper!!

[@leonardcanter4596]

Great History Lesson !! Thank You !! I have a 2022 Gretsch G6229TG, Turquoise Sparkle Jet, Ltd Edition, 1998 Gretsch G6120, 1992 Gretsch G7594T DC White Falcon, and 5 more Gretsch Guitars including a 2016 Gretsch G5715 Lap Steel. Bought ‘‘em all new and play ‘em as much as I can. Looking forward to visiting the Gretsch Guitar Museum in Savannah, GA. 🎸

[@GScott50]

1:17 Duo Jet - solid body? Mine is substantially chambered. OK the construction is not like a hollow body, but it's not exactly like a regular solid body either!

[@GScott50]

Yep, I should have watched the whole thing before commenting...

[@fivewattworld]

No worries

[@mortonwilson795]

Another great historical overview! Bought my first Gretsch in 2022. Japanese made Duo Jet that seems to be a revival of the Jet Firebird - Red top, Black sides, Bigsby w. thumbnail markers. I've played mainly my 1968 Gibson LP & a couple of Strats for decades and this is just a treat - it has a personality all of its own - lovely instrument.

[@sonsauvage]

There's something about Gretsch. It's one of those guitar brands that people go to when they're looking for "that sound", and I've never played a bad one. However...I just can't get down with the aesthetics and ergonomics!

[@bigsnacks913]

Heard that on the ergonomics bro, I still love my Tenn Rose and I'll hang on to it forever but once I replaced my Duo Jet with a Strandberg it was like physically rediscovering the guitar for the first time...Ola really got it right.

[@unsavedinfovol.1178]

The most anticipated episode. First guitar I dreamed of, Thanks for making this video!

[@warner631]

"Anybody with a bandsaw and router can make a solid body electric guitar." I am living proof.

[@fivewattworld]

Yeah, that's a great quote huh Tyler? But Leo proved that's all you need.

[@hmarkison]

That first shot of the Country Gentleman brought back back memories of mine from the '70s. I still miss that guitar. The action was the best I've seen before or since. But I was young and foolish and sold, mistreated or mutilated guitars that people would kill for now. I love your vids but they often break my heart.

[@DustinKoch]

The praise worship community have made a pretty big impact with Gretsch in the last 15 years as well! Both with the duo jet and the White Falcon. I think it’s worth mentioning how many Gretsch guitars are played on Sunday mornings!

[@GlennJimenez]

Which makes me Sad because I wish people were more individualistic when playing worship!

[@aarronwootton]

Makes me sad to waste such beatiful guitars on such soulless music

[@DustinKoch]

@@aarronwootton you know what?! Some, if not most, worship music is terrible. You’re right in that sense, but there are plenty of songs that are full of incredible depth and hope. It takes looking past the terrible commercial Christian music to see that. I hate that about the industry, but I love it when I find rich worship music that wasn’t made to please 50 year old white couples who live in a picket fence neighborhood.

[@KI5DDO]

I bought my Gretsch bc it felt and sounded right. Now I’ve got “the rest of the story” adding to the joy of playing it. Thanks for the video!!

[@kendalljamesmusic]

That's an intolerable number of ad breaks

[@fivewattworld]

Well Kendall, it takes me about two weeks to make one of these bad boys. So it has to do w that really.

[@cherrypickerguitars]

Thanks so much! I’m such a Gretsch fan! I have several - a RI 1954 Falcon, a RI 1958 Streamliner (a semi hollow single cut), a White Falcon appointed 6000 series jumbo acoustic, a 2007 Silver Jet and an Electromatic Jr Jet short scale bass. Over the years (I’m 62) I’ve owned and played nearly two dozen Gretsch guitars! I’m an addict. I currently have 55 guitars and have maintained a “collection” of aprox that size for many, many years! Peace

[@myshow667]

the least amount of gear huh, but every video makes me want a new guitar ha

[@fivewattworld]

Yes, it's time to make a few "essentialist" videos now I think. But maybe "The Beano Album: A Short History" What do you think?

[@myshow667]

@@fivewattworld idk, i may be a bad judge of that. The real reason I listen to Derek and The Dominoes is Dwayne and Bobby Whitlock. But thats me heh

[@Knightmare-gz9ls]

Scrolled just to find this comment. Feel the pain. 😆

[@myshow667]

now that could be aninteresting "essential" tpoic....the contrast of style between Dwayne and Eric on that amazing record. I have a wonderful 3 disc set of it with alt takes and jams that is pretty interesting. Booklet and stuff. The story behind that album is profound on its own

[@fivewattworld]

That would be a great one. The debate about Champs alone is very five watt world.

[@monosound81]

I have a 1973 Roc Jet. Not a Duo Jet but a pretty cool guitar. Wanted one since i was 16/17. Patrick Pentland from Sloan used one consistently around 1997/98 and it stood out for me because it was a bit different from a traditional Duo Jet. I had the privilege of playing a Pumpkin Orange one when I was 17 but even at $1000 during a madness sale, I couldn’t afford it. Never saw one again. Eventually I came across my 1973. It had been re fretted and had a neck reset which made it very affordable. It’s the only Gretsch I’ve ever owned and I’ll never part with it.

[@philipm4585]

So i recently aquired a Gretsch G5566.... Anybody has ANY Info on it? Its the Doubleneck Bariton Guitar/Guitar... Help i dint find any Info on it Its the on at 20:06

[@fivewattworld]

I believe it's in the Electromatic line, made in Korea. Sound right?

[@philipm4585]

@@fivewattworld actually i have no Idea ot should be yeah but theres only one for Sale and a couple Reviews... And one Video Review in Spanish but i dont know if its a Limited Run or something they seem not common though

[@sambolino44]

I remember briefly playing someone's Duo-Jet way back in high school in the '70s. I knew about the Gretsch brand, but had never seen anything but the huge hollow-bodies before this. I was stunned! I could tell right away that it wasn't a true solid-body, but still, the size, quality and features; this thing could definitely rock. I couldn't understand then, nor do I understand now, why these weren't more popular.

[@ds2td]

Any other Beatles fans deeply infatuated with George’s Duo Jet?

[@Janko1972]

Oh yeah..oh yeah. At the age of 9, I could never understand why George played that old man Country Gentleman on the Sullivan show when Paul and John had such cool looking guitars. When I saw the DJ in Pop magazines, I wondered why he didn't play that one.

[@todd7416ify]

I agree. The Duo Jet is such a better looking guitar than the Country Gentleman.

[@zenon459]

Why didnt he play it longer?

[@bebop425]

Yes! I have the 6128t-57, it's great! Don't buy the GH model, it's not worth the money for the wreck of mods on it.

[@prodkwop]

@@todd7416ify Huh, I must be in the minority that thinks the country gentleman looked better, love the deep red color and overall look of it, just looks more “beatle-ey” to me

[@thebooda]

These have become my favorite videos! Thanks for all the hard work putting these together. They are the fastest ~25 minutes in my day when they appear. Great Work!

[@orenalbertmeisel3127]

I wonder if Gretsch as brand had a sense of exclusivity in the US considering the name sounds german making it feel more exotic than other guitar manufacturers? Kind of the opposite of today’s american sounding Harley Benton which produces guitars in China for Germany based Musikhaus Thomann

[@shaunw9270]

Interesting but I don't think so . I say this because very early Rickenbacker guitars (like the "frying pan") have a nameplate reading Rickenbacher . People were seemingly anglocising their names ...

[@shaunw9270]

@christopher weise Adolph Rickenbacher hailed from Switzerland and was related to the WW1 pilot , Eddie Rickenbacker.

[@fivewattworld]

The Red Barron, really?! That’s a great bit of trivia.

[@shaunw9270]

@KC They did both have cool planes though ! 😉

[@shaunw9270]

@@fivewattworld Uh..as KC said 😉

[@ricolander7393]

Again, super informative. My buddy has a vintage Chet Adkins model he inherited that I have long drooled over. Thank you.

[@jamesnickles7366]

George Harrison has to be the most famous duo jet player.

[@jaclestrat]

After Cliff Gallup.

[@fivewattworld]

Ha! That's the spirit. George might have said the same.

[@Dan.Solo.Chicago]

Wasn’t expecting Wilco to pop up in this video. Jeff Tweedy used to live in my neighborhood. I saw him at the park a few times. I remember the first time I saw him there. I was with my niece, and Jeff noticed me and looked at me head to toe. I don’t know why but it’s what he did. Maybe I was dressed cool that day or something. His kid had a Beatles cover band. All kids but they were really good. The park district put on a talent show, that was when I saw them play. I can remember what they called the band though but I’m sure it was some kind of clever Beatles reference.

[@ray.shoesmith]

*"The company was very comfortable adding a plastic skin to the laminated drums, and it wasn't a stretch to apply this method to the laminated top of the guitar"* - I see what you did there 😏

[@fivewattworld]

You’re the first to comment. :)

[@CommanderClyde]

I started playing guitar a couple of years ago and the first time I saw Gretsch guitars demoed, I wanted one badly. Last November I was able to get an Electromatic hollowbody double cut to make that dream come true. And you might expect I use it for finger picking Chet Atkins style, but no. I'm here playing Grunge and Metal on it and it sounds amazing! Thanks for highlighting the history of this almost 140 year old company.

[@metalmover]

Lockdown Guitar Porn...I'll take it.

[@cherrypickerguitars]

Also - you, Rhett, Dave and Mr Beato have become some of my very best guitar buds! Cheers! Thanks so much for what you do!

[@tball5677]

I especially loved this one. The Sparkle jet is my dream guitar. As usual I will watch this several more times. Thanks for putting out such informative and entertaining content. 5 WATT ROCKS!

[@petrod4712]

Love my Gretch Jet and my semi hollow body - style, class and tone of their own. Great short history - best so far out of an awesome series.

[@phillipholt6005]

I had a chance to buy a Atkins style for a ridiculous low price a couple years ago that was red but I didn't have a clue about the 🎸 guitar. WOW that's why this is my one and only favorite channel. I always learn something new.

[@JimmyFloridatube]

I bought a Roc Jet in a pawn shop in Memphis in 1973 and strapped it to my motorcycle and drove to Virginia Beach for my Navy assignment. I sold it in Chicago in about 1976 or 77. I wish I would have kept it now. I used that guitar in a band of Navy guys and we gigged around the area for about a year .

[@belguitars7102]

Hey Keith, the silver jet you showed from 1954, is my one!!! I recently brought it from guitarpoint, it is from the first batch of 150 silver jets ever manufactured... still not early enough to be a script logo silverjet but still super early!!! Amazing guitar, I love it... love your show, super informative, keep up the good work!!!!

[@Magik1369]

Another fantastic guitar history lesson. Gretsch has always been a fascination for me ever since I968 when I was 5 yo and would sneak into the basement of our family home and hide in the closet so I could watch my older brother's band rehearsal. One brother was playing on a 5 piece Gretsch drum set, while my older brother was playing on a Gretsch guitar through a Sears Silvertone tube amp. The Bigsby twang bar was the alluring thing...that strange twilight zone sound of twangy chords and sounds. Fascinating and well done!

[@brainsmoothy]

oh hey. thanks for thank the teachers. i can't teach anymore due to injuries but it was the light of my life while i could. that's really nice man. that i could play guitar was always the life saver at work. when in doubt make a history lesson into a song.

[@andrewkoastephens210]

Billy Zoom! If we’re talking about guitarists playing a duo jet, there is Billy Zoom and there are footnotes.

[@tommorris5069]

I purchased a brand new 2011 Cadillac green Duo Jet recently. I had to get my Beatles on during this pandemic.

[@rkharper]

Fantastic!!!! I just got myself 2 new japanese Duo Jet, a 57 Cadillac Green, and a limited 68 Champagne Sparkle. Without a doubt two of my favorite guitars in my collection!

[@maxwellpowell4306]

I don't what it is but there's just something special about Gretsch Guitars and the way they plat that will always hold a place in my heart. The second guitar I ever bought with my own money was a 2006 Gretsch Electromatic G5135 Corvette from before they renamed it the CVT. It had been played to within an inch of its life and had even had a head stock repair, but even with all that damage it was the best sounding and best playing guitar I had ever held in my hands. It was a 12 year old monster of a guitar that I payed $300 Canadian for with a case and I will never sell this guitar as long as I live. I LOVE Gretsch Guitars!!!

[@JJ-bb3jv]

I have been waiting for this one - so excited to watch it. Thank you for making great, meaningful content Keith!